It is no surprise that artificial intelligence (AI) continues to redefine the workplace, becoming a pervasive force reshaping how we, as a society, live, work, and interact with one another. Much of today’s discourse on AI centers on the productivity and efficiency component of automation. Yet, in the journey to understand just how much AI can do, there is minimal attention given to what AI reveals about the society that is using it. So what happens when a group of five ODKMers takes on the challenge to shift the narrative of AI away from a technology lens towards a relational one?
On September 12, Re-authoring the Team: Relational Intelligence in the Age of AI, is an ODKM Learning Community that explores relational intelligence and the collective responsibility of human connection in the age of AI. Rather than viewing AI as merely a technological advancement, this event will challenge participants to examine its impact on human relationships and professional identity in the workplace. This learning community is hosted by ODKM students Eli Aron Harris, Chinazom Ojiaku, Achal Sharma Paudyal, Jeremy Plotnick, and Nandini Singh.
Isabelle Hau, executive director of the Stanford Accelerator for Learning, defines relational intelligence as, "the deeply human ability to build trust, navigate tension, repair ruptures, and create meaning with others.”
While emotional intelligence focuses on understanding and regulating emotions, co-host Nandini Singh characterizes relational intelligence as the “connective tissue” in how people interact and sustain connections with one another.
The event's inspiration stemmed from a shared interest in understanding the dynamic between relational intelligence and human connection during times of uncertainty. As AI becomes more integrated into organizational everyday work, it has become what Singh describes as an "invisible third colleague.” In response, participants will explore what it means to “re-author” the traditional understanding of teamwork.
The question is no longer, “What can AI do for us? but rather, "What does AI reveal about us?“
Describing AI as a "diagnostic mirror," co-host Jeremy Plotnick reflects on the impact AI’s transformation has on the collaborative nature of work.
“If AI takes a bunch of the work away from people, a bunch of the things that they used to do collaboratively can now be done by a machine…It's not just an automated system; it's a new colleague that's actually a machine. And how does this change the relational dynamic among the humans that are left?” Jeremy asked.
The conversation starts to extend beyond team dynamics and into professional identity. When AI is able to perform tasks that are closely tied to expertise, it runs the risk of exposing how many professionals are closely tied to the work they do, thereby questioning their value in teams and organizations.
“If AI can all of a sudden do 70% or 80% of your job, really, what value do you have? You're going to start to question yourself,” Plotnick explained. The concern is not AI itself but rather how the relational and psychosocial strain it can produce for professionals affects their contribution in the workplace.
Throughout the day, participants will have the opportunity to hear directly from keynote speaker Hau, reflect in a moderated panel discussion, and engage in scenario-based discussions through a Knowledge Cafe.
Together, these learning experiences invite participants to envision what Singh describes as an “infrastructure that actively supports personhood,” prioritizing what remains uniquely human alongside technological advancement.
Can’t make it to the September Learning Community? The next Learning Community is set for November 14. Additional details to come!
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Hau, I. C. (2026). Welcome to the Era of Relational Intelligence. Stanford Social Innovation Review, 24(2), 26–35. https://doi.org/10.48558/PY66-AH68